Discover Mullein Benefits for Skin, Lungs, and Overall Wellness. Learn How to Use Mullein in Teas, Toners, and More

Unlocking the Power of Mullein: Your Guide to This Herbal Ally

What is Mullein?

If you’ve ever seen a tall, fuzzy-leafed plant with a golden crown of flowers swaying in the wind, chances are you’ve met mullein (Verbascum thapsus). Known for centuries as a gentle yet powerful herbal ally, mullein benefits both skin and lungs, making it a trusted ingredient in soothing teas, calming toners, and natural remedies.

Herbalists call it “The Velvet Plant” for its soft, silvery leaves, but its uses go far beyond beauty. From easing irritated skin to supporting lung health, mullein is a timeless plant that belongs in every natural wellness toolkit.

In this guide, you’ll discover how to use mullein in skincare and wellness, from leaf teas and flower oils to salves and toners — plus tips for growing and harvesting it yourself.

Want even more herbal DIY recipes? Join my Secret Garden Facebook group or follow me on TikTok.

Mullein: A Hardy Biennial Plant

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a hardy biennial plant that thrives in sunny, dry areas.

• First Year: Grows a rosette of large, velvety leaves.

• Second Year: Produces a tall flowering stalk up to 6 feet high, topped with clusters of bright yellow blooms.

  
  

You’ll often find it along country roads, open meadows, and even in rocky soil. While some see it as a weed, herbalists value it for its healing properties.

Why Mullein is Loved in the Natural Community

• Leaves – Soothing and anti-inflammatory, ideal for teas and skincare.

• Flowers – Infused into oil for ear health and massage.

• Roots – Traditionally used for joint and back support.

  
  

Mullein Leaves: Benefits and Uses

The leaves of mullein are known for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making them perfect for herbal teas and natural skincare.

Mullein Tea Benefits

Mullein leaf tea supports lung health, eases throat irritation, and helps with coughs and colds. Studies suggest that mullein-based herbal teas can reduce symptoms of bronchial irritation.

Topical Uses

Infusing mullein leaves into oil creates a gentle remedy for skin irritation, rashes, and minor burns.

Close-up view of velvety mullein leaves showcasing their texture.

Mullein Flowers: Benefits and Uses

The bright yellow mullein flowers aren’t just beautiful — they’re packed with wellness benefits.

• Ear Health: Mullein flower oil is a gentle, natural remedy for earaches and is often recommended for children.

• Anti-Inflammatory: Compounds in the flowers help reduce swelling and discomfort.

• Herbal Preparations: The blooms can add color and healing properties to salves, oils, and balms.

  
  

Mullein Roots: Benefits and Uses

Traditionally, mullein root has been used to ease joint and back pain.

• Can be prepared as a tincture or decoction.

• Contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help with soreness.

• Valued by herbalists as a natural alternative to conventional pain relief.

  
  

Mullein for Skin

Mullein for skin is gaining popularity in the herbal skincare world for its calming and anti-inflammatory benefits. It helps soothe redness, irritation, and dryness while protecting the skin barrier.

Mullein Toner Recipe

1. Steep dried mullein leaves in boiling water.

2. Let cool completely, then strain well.

3. Store in a clean bottle and use as a refreshing facial mist to reduce redness and calm skin.

   
   

Mullein Oil for Skin Health

1. Infuse dried mullein flowers in a carrier oil (olive or jojoba) for 2–4 weeks.

2. Strain and store in a dark glass bottle.

3. Apply directly to dry patches, add to bathwater, or use for massage.

   
   

Eye-level view of a homemade mullein toner in a glass bottle, highlighting its natural color.

How to Grow and Harvest Mullein

Growing Mullein

• Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

• Minimal water once established.

• Sow seeds directly in early spring or fall.

  
  

Harvesting Mullein

• Leaves: Harvest in the first year.

• Flowers: Harvest in the morning during the second year’s bloom.

• Always collect from pesticide-free areas.

  
  

DIY Mullein Recipes

🍵 Mullein Leaf Tea – 1–2 tsp dried leaves, steep 10–15 min, strain well.

💧 Mullein Toner – 1 tbsp dried leaves, steep in 1 cup hot water, strain, refrigerate.

🌼 Mullein-Infused Oil – Fill jar ½ full dried mullein, cover with carrier oil, infuse 2–4 weeks.

🧴 Mullein Salve – ¼ cup infused oil + 1 tbsp beeswax, melt, pour into tins.

Conclusion

Mullein may look like just another wild plant, but it’s a gift from nature. From soothing skin to supporting clear breathing, mullein benefits have been treasured for generations. Whether you drink it as tea, apply it as oil, or grow it in your garden, it’s a versatile herbal ally worth knowing.

Next Steps:

• Join my Secret Garden Facebook group for more DIY skincare recipes and daily devotionals.

• Follow me on TikTok for quick how-to videos, ingredient spotlights, and natural living inspiration.